When a loved one suffers due to medical negligence or dies unexpectedly, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Emotions run high, and families often find themselves asking whether they should seek the help of a wrongful death attorney or a medical malpractice attorney.
The decision mainly depends on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. Let’s break down the distinct roles of a Greenville wrongful death lawyer, a Spartanburg wrongful death attorney, and a Greenville medical malpractice attorney to help guide your decision.
Understanding Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice claims arise when a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or technician, fails to provide the standard of care required, resulting in injury or death. This could be due to negligence, an omission, or a deliberate action.
For these cases, it’s crucial to have a seasoned Greenville medical malpractice attorney on your side. They’ll be well-versed in medical terminology, have access to expert witnesses, and understand the laws governing medical malpractice in South Carolina. By working with our legal team, you can rest assured that every detail will be meticulously examined.
The Nuances of Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death claims are a subset of personal injury law that deals with cases where an individual’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional harm. A Greenville wrongful death lawyer or a Spartanburg wrongful death attorney focuses on getting compensation for the deceased’s family for loss of income, funeral expenses, emotional suffering, and more.
While medical malpractice can lead to a wrongful death claim, not all wrongful death claims stem from medical malpractice. It is essential to discern the nature of the negligence to determine the type of lawyer you need.
Factors to Consider Before Making a Decision
Before you decide on the type of legal representation you require, it’s essential to assess several key factors. These factors will not only guide your decision but ensure that you’re equipped with the right legal team tailored to your specific needs.
Nature of the Negligence
The primary determinant in a medical malpractice or wrongful death case is the nature of the negligence involved. If a loved one died due to complications from surgery, an incorrect prescription, or a diagnostic error, you’re likely looking at a medical malpractice case. In such instances, you’d want an attorney familiar with medical experts, procedures, and standard of care practices. However, if the death occurred due to non-medical reasons, such as a slip and fall accident at a store or a car or truck crash, a wrongful death attorney would be more appropriate.
Available Evidence
Gathering concrete evidence is pivotal in both types of cases. For medical malpractice claims, you’d need medical records, expert testimonials, and any other relevant documentation that can establish a breach in the standard of care.
In contrast, wrongful death claims might require accident reports, eyewitness accounts, and other forms of evidence. Evaluate what you have on hand and consider which legal approach would provide the best chance of successfully interpreting and presenting this evidence.
Emotional and Financial Impacts
Lastly, think about the emotional and financial aftermath of the incident. Medical malpractice cases can be particularly grueling, as they often involve delving deep into technical medical details which can be distressing for some families.
Wrongful death claims, while also emotionally charged, might present a different set of challenges, especially if there are multiple parties involved or if the negligence occurred in a public setting. Consider the potential emotional toll of each type of case, as well as the financial implications, such as lost wages, funeral expenses, and medical bills, when deciding which type of lawyer is best suited to represent you. Check out their reviews and interview them to see if they’re the right fit for you and your family.
Making the Right Choice
If your loved one’s death resulted directly from a medical procedure or treatment, a Greenville medical malpractice attorney would be the best fit. They can dissect the medical aspects of the case and determine if there was a breach in the standard of care. On the other hand, if the death was caused by other negligent actions, like a car accident or workplace incident, then a Greenville wrongful death lawyer or Spartanburg wrongful death attorney is what you need.
As you navigate this challenging time, remember that our team is here to support and guide you. Our primary goal is to ensure that justice is served and that your family receives the compensation and closure it deserves. If you’re unsure about which path to take, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our seasoned professionals will help determine the best course of action for your unique situation. At The Law Offices of David L. Hood, we have four locations in The Upstate to serve you, including two in Greenville, Spartanburg & Rock Hill.
In these difficult moments, timely and informed decisions can make a significant difference. Allow our team to be by your side. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can help you seek the justice and compensation you and your family deserve. We’re available 24/7 by phone, chat, email or text.